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The first RS-11s were produced by Alco in early
1956. This locomotive, classified by Alco as model DL-701, was
their replacement for the very popular RS-3 road-switcher.
Featuring a V-12, 1,800hp 251B diesel engine, the RS-11 was Alco?s
answer to EMD?s very successful GP9. The turbocharged RS-11
accelerated faster, had a higher tractive effort rating and
typically used less fuel than the competition. It was also quite
versatile and could be found in heavy haul freight as well as
passenger service.
The largest owner of RS-11?s was Norfolk & Western which
purchased a total of 99 units (an additional 35 were added to the
fleet after the merger with Nickel Plate). Other major purchasers
included Northern Pacific, Pennsylvania and Southern Pacific, all
of whom placed repeat orders. With approximately 426 units built
for the US and Mexico over 8 years of production, the RS-11 was
successful for Alco in that it provided ongoing competition for
EMD?s popular road-switchers. A few examples of this model are
still in service today and can be found working for various
shortlines in the US.
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